THOUSANDS of adults will be given free DIY antibody tests as the Government takes new steps to defeat Covid.
From this week, anyone over 18 who becomes infected can check their body’s immune response.
Up to 8,000 people a day will receive two finger-prick tests to complete at home and send to a lab for analysis.
By comparing the results of two tiny blood samples taken 28 days apart, scientists will measure the antibodies generated in reaction to the virus.
The UK-wide scheme will help research into immunity levels built up after jabs and infections and provide a further insight into how effective vaccines are against different variants.
Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: “Our new national antibody testing will be quick and easy to take part in.
“I’m proud to see all parts of the UK uniting around this new initiative to arm ourselves with even more valuable insights into how vaccines are protecting people.”
He urged “everyone to get both vaccinations as soon as possible”.
The tests work by looking for Covid antibodies, proteins in the blood produced by the body in response to the infection.
The first test shows the level of protection a person had before becoming infected.
The second will give boffins vital data to see how well jabbed people boost their immunity when they are infected.
Dr Jenny Harries, head of the UK Health Security Agency, said: “We are rolling out antibody testing to gain vital data into the impact of vaccination and on immune responses to different variants.
“This has been made possible thanks to the incredible public who continue to come forward for testing when they develop symptoms and the millions who have had their jabs.”
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